×

Kroger, union reach tentative agreement on new contract

A Kroger store is shown Friday, March 1, 2024, in Cross Lanes, W.Va. A union representing 3,000 workers in West Virginia, Ohio and Kentucky has voted to reject a contract offer from the company and to authorize a strike if necessary. (AP Photo/John Raby)

RICHMOND, Va. — Kroger and United Food and Commercial Workers Local 400 Union announced Thursday they had reached a Fully Recommended Tentative Agreement on a new contract for Mid-Atlantic division associates in West Virginia, Kentucky and Ohio.

“Kroger’s commitment to increase wages and ensure associates have access to low-cost, high-quality health care benefits has long been a core priority,” said Lori Raya, president of Kroger Mid-Atlantic, said in a press release issued Thursday evening. “I am pleased to have an agreement that rewards these associates with more money than ever before.”

The release said Kroger is proud to be the nation’s largest unionized grocery retailer. By working together with the union, and with the assistance of a federal mediator, the company was able to reach a Fully Recommended Tentative Agreement that is good for associates and helps keep fresh food affordable for the communities served, the release said.

The agreement raises starting wages to $13 per hour and provides wage increases up to $2.50 per hour for department leaders and Top Rate associates over the life of the contract. It also includes a premium increase for all night shift work.

The union will hold a Ratification Vote next week for bargaining unit members, the release said.

U.S. Senator Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., released a statement following the agreement announcement.

“The tentative agreement between Kroger and UFCW Local 400 is welcome news for the state of West Virginia, and I am very thankful that both sides came back to the negotiating table and worked in good faith to reach an agreement,” Manchin said. “Kroger stores and their employees play a crucial role in the fabric of our communities by providing a sense of belonging, strengthening our economy and contributing to the well-being of our families. I look forward to continuing my grocery shopping at my local Kroger,” he said.

The contract covers stores in Parkersburg, Ripley, Belpre and Marietta.

Starting at $2.99/week.

Subscribe Today